Dr Mark Matthews – Veterinarian, Hawthorn East Vet & Kew Vet

Mark has 20 years’ experience in veterinary practice, initially in New Zealand (or New Ziland as he pronounces it!) followed by a number of years in a busy practice in London. Mark is passionate about ensuring every pet receives the best possible care and is interested in all aspects of medicine and surgery. When Mark’s not at work, the fitness fan(atic) can be usually be found running, playing tennis or at the gym. He recently completed his fourth (and last, he swears) marathon – but never say never! At home, Mark and his partner are at the beck and call of their very spoilt cat, Luke. These days Mark splits his time between clinical work at Hawthorn East and administrative work.

The official stuff: Mark graduated from Massey University (NZ) in 1998. He recently completed a postgraduate course in ophthalmology through Sydney University and regularly attends conferences and continuing education events to keep up to date with the latest developments in animal health and wellbeing. Mark made Melbourne home in 2005, taking the helm of Hawthorn East Vet in 2009. Since then the practice has expanded to include Kew Vet and Cattery (2014) and Alphington and Fairfield Vet (2017). Mark is a member of the Australian Veterinary Association and the Australian Small Animal Veterinary Association.

In short, Mark is: Caring, energetic and likely to be off for another run…….

Dr Henry Wong – Veterinarian, Hawthorn East Vet

With a special interest in internal medicine and delivering high-quality patient care, Henry joined the Hawthorn East team in 2016. He loves connecting with clients and their pets and working together to solve problems. Henry is also really great at explaining complex and complicated issues in a simplified, easy-to-understand way.

The official stuff: Henry has a BVSc (Hons) from Melbourne University (2013) and spent two years in Adelaide working for a group of Animal hospitals before moving to Melbourne to take up a role at Hawthorn East

In three words, Henry is: Confident, easy-going and honest.

Cam joined the team in 2017, having just moved back to Melbourne after working in the UK. Cam unfortunately has no pets of his own so like to shower his furry patients with pets and cuddles. Cam has great interest in medical cases and diagnostics particularly in dogs and cats suffering from gastro-intestinal issues. He is also passionate about pet weight management and the impact carrying a few extra pounds can have on your pets health. While not at work Cam revels outdoors in hiking, canyoning and skiing or catching up with friends for some unusual board games and beers.

The official stuff: Cam graduated with a BVSc (Hons) from the University of Melbourne in 2011. Cam worked in mixed farm animal practice in Gippsland for 3 years before working in the UK for 2 years.

In three words, Cam is: enthusiastic, adventurous and friendly.

Practice Manager/Veterinary Nurse – Hawthorn East Vet and Kew Vet & Cattery

Jo started work as Veterinary Nurse in 2004, and completed her Certificate IV in Veterinary nursing in 2007. She joined Hawthorn East Vet in 2012 and has recently taken on the role of Practice Manager.

Jo and Mark the Vet worked together in a previous life at another Vet clinic, before Jo took some time out to have two children.   Jo is enjoying the challenges of practice management but also loves being still involved in the nursing side of the clinic too.  Along with a husband and two children at home, Jo has three cats Emmylou, Wilson & Ianto (thats Ianto in the photo).   

Veterinary Nurse – Hawthorn East Vet

After working in pet transport for 5 years, I decided I wanted to take on a more ‘hands on’ role with animals and completed my Cert II in Animal Studies, before starting nursing in 2010. I haven’t looked back since then, and completed my Cert IV in Veterinary Nursing in 2013, receiving a high achievement nomination within my sector. 
Since then I have  been to Sumatra Indonesia to do some volunteer nursing work with Orangutans, and I  take a special interest in animal conservation, and behaviour. 
When I’m not out enjoying friends and family time, my handsome 6 year old cat “Kodey” keeps me on my toes at home!

Receptionist – Hawthorn East Vet

Hi, my name is Mel and I have worked in the Veterinary industry for over 20 years both as a nurse and receptionist. I have also worked abroad in busy New York City as a Veterinary technician. I love being a receptionist most because I enjoy meeting clients and their pets, and chatting about how much we love our fur kids. I’m here to help you with any questions you have and assist you any way I can with your pet’s needs, sharing the knowledge I have gained over the years. At home I have 3 chickens, a rabbit, 3 cats, a cockatiel, 2 dogs and the occasional orphaned possums I hand rear until release, you could say I have my own mini farm! 

Angela Bright – Trainee Vet Nurse Hawthorn East Vet

Angela has always known she wanted to end up in a career working with animals. In addition to having dogs as a part of the family from a young age, she has been involved with animals whilst undertaking volunteer work within a number of animal shelters. Passionate about animal welfare, Angela has two rescue dogs, Tinker the Basenji cross and Monty the Terrier cross, whom she loves very much. She also lives with a 1 year old Miniature Schnauzer named Panko.

The official stuff:
After completing a Bachelor of Biological Science in 2013, Angela took time off to travel in Europe and the United States before living and working in Canada for a year. She returned in 2017 to undertake an Associate Degree of Veterinary Nursing. Angela joined Hawthorn East Vet in November as a Trainee Veterinary Nurse. She is looking forward to completing her final year of the Associate Degree whilst immersing herself in the veterinary nursing. Angela is looking forward to meeting and caring for your furry family members.

Three words: Caring, open-minded and adventurous.